University of North Carolina Athletics
Tranquill To Return As Offensive Coordinator
December 7, 2004 | Football
Dec. 7, 2004
University of North Carolina offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Gary Tranquill will return for the 2005 season, head coach John Bunting announced today at Carolina's Continental Tire Bowl press conference.
"He's one of the great offensive minds in the country and I'm extremely excited about that as is the rest of our football program," said Bunting. "This guy is a genius. He works at it, loves it, and has a passion for this game and his offense. I know (quarterback) Matt Baker is thrilled he'll be back, as is the offensive staff and the players."
Tranquill had contemplated retirement, but decided he wanted to coach again after meeting with Bunting over the last few weeks.
"I think the biggest reasons are that I feel good physically, I still think I can contribute and I think the team is going to be pretty good next year," said Tranquill. "I've been on and off (about deciding to retire) for the last four or five years. Some days I was going to do it for sure, and other days I wasn't."
Carolina ranks second in the league in total offense and yards per carry. In league games, the Tar Heels are averaging a conference-best 413.2 yards per game. Under Tranquill's tutelage, quarterback Darian Durant has become the most prolific passer in school history with 48 school records.
Tranquill sees a bright future for the Tar Heels despite the loss of Durant.
"I think we have a chance to be a pretty good football team next year, and I think we have the chance to be good on offense. I'm looking forward to it, and that's always part of the reason (to continue coaching). I've been around young guys for 40-plus years and it's hard to just run away."
